Trial Garden

Monarda ‘Dark Ponticum’

6 Photos

Summary

Monarda ‘Dark Ponticum’ did not perform very well during the first year of the trial, likely due to poor establishment. However, by the second and third years it was consistently among the top-performing selections. ‘Dark Ponticum’ stands out for its lush, blue-green foliage which gives it a very attractive appearance all season long. Powdery mildew can become an issue, but it does not seem to affect the health of the leaves, causing no yellowing or defoliation. This was especially impressive in August and September when bee balms foliage is typically at its worst. ‘Dark Ponticum’ also has a prolific floral display that blooms with nearly 100% flower coverage for three straight weeks. Monarda ‘Blaustrumpf’ (Blue Stocking) looks nearly identical, except that it is more prone to powdery mildew.